I started with Eleanor Burns and have been making quilts for nearly 25 years and still think her patterns and books are wonderful. I have also taken workshops with many other designers and enjoy them as well, but still return many times to Eleanor's so clear directions. When a friend wants to learn how to start quilting or to learn how to write directions I send her to Eleanor. But I don't think she recommends a certain product, that's up to the colors each person likes.